Mudumalai National Park, National park in Nilgiris district, India.
Mudumalai National Park spreads across 321 square kilometers of deciduous woodland, gentle hills, and streams within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve at an altitude of 1266 meters (4150 feet). The reserve forms a natural corridor between several parks across three states, sheltering elephants, gaur, langurs, and many other species.
British authorities began granting logging licenses in 1857, which led to the area being designated a reserve forest in 1914. National park status was granted in 1940 to protect the forests and their inhabitants permanently.
The name combines Tamil words meaning ancient forest, reflecting centuries of connection between local communities and this woodland. Visitors encounter small temples and settlements at the edge of the protected area, showing how people and nature coexist in this region.
The area opens to visitors from October through May, offering guided jeep safaris organized by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department. Morning and late afternoon hours give the best chances to observe wildlife, when temperatures are cooler.
The protected area supports 48 tigers and 266 bird species alongside 498 plant varieties, thriving thanks to the mix of different woodland types. Visitors often spot herds of elephants moving between protected areas along their natural migration routes.
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